The Southern Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (SACPR) is an affiliate society of the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). Our society includes both cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation professionals from Alabama and Mississippi. We are dedicated to primary and secondary prevention methods for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases.
Mission
The Southern Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (SACPR) exists to provide information, support and networking opportunities for cardiovascular and pulmonary professionals in our region.
History
SACPR was formed in 1989 encompassing Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Under the first president Deon Thompson's leadership, the first Spring Symposium was held in Pine Bluff Arkansas April 6-7, 1990. The second Spring Meeting was in Birmingham, Alabama with J. Chris Boykin as President. Bonnie Sanderson, Claudia Wilkey, and Ann Forney also contributed to the initial force creating the association. The Cresent City at Oschner Medical Institution was the site of the third Spring Meeting with Johnny McDaniel as president. Long Beach, Mississippi at USM Garden Park Hospital hosted the fourth Spring Symposium April 23-24, 1993 with Linda Patterson as President.
With this beginning and strong leadership through the years the SACPR has developed into an outstanding association for fostering cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.
~ Johnny McDaniel ~
SACPR Today
Today SACPR encompasses Alabama and Mississippi. The membership includes about 85 active members. The objectives of SACPR are to enhance clinical effectiveness, promote scientific inquiry, and advance education of both health professionals and the community at large.
As an affiliate of the AACVPR, we work closely with the national organization. The Reimbursement and Legislative Committee actively participates in successful lobbying efforts in Washington, DC concerning current legislation to secure the future of cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation. The Communication Committee maintains our program directory and website as well as publishing newsletters which keep members aware of important information. The Program and Professional Education Committee plans the annual conference which provides information on current issues and trends in the field of cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation. The Executive Committee and the Board of Directors welcome everyone to be a member of SACPR and encourage your membership and support of the AACVPR.